Loudmouth: Emma Goldman vs. America (A Love Story)

The complexities and passions that characterized Jewish, Lithuanian-born writer and anarchist Emma Goldman (1869–1940) drive this comprehensive, thoroughly researched biography by Heiligman (Torpedoed). Goldman’s desire to fight against oppression arose in her youth, during which she was raised by a disengaged mother and physically abusive father. Forced to leave school at 13 to help support her family, Goldman covertly read novels and political pamphlets to educate herself. Leisurely paced prose reimagines scenes from the subject’s life and notes how What Is to Be Done? by Nikolay Chernyshevsky—and its radical heroine, who practiced free love and sought gender and workplace equality—shaped Goldman’s belief that one “should not have to give up fun, pleasure, beauty, or love for political ideas.” In 1885, the 16-year-old immigrated to America, where news of Chicago’s Haymarket labor riot inspired her “to make their cause my own.” Drawing information from Goldman’s own works, Heiligman builds a vivid portrait of a resilient figure who navigated prejudices against immigrants, Jews, women, and the working class at the dawn of the 20th century. Depictions of Goldman’s private life—including her rejection of marriage, religion, and monogamy—offer personal touchstones across a revolution-focused narrative. Ages 14–up. Agent: Susan Ginsburg, Writers House. (Sept.)